Petrov gets the Gold in Stage 11 at Giro

Evgeni Petrov of Katusha finally gave one of the best wins in the longest stage of the Giro d’Italia. Due to a successful break from the peloton, underneath the rain, Petrov rode past all the contenders of stage 11. “I’m very, very happy. I have to thank all my team, they helped me a lot today. Anna, I won!” said Petrov. Celebrating his 32nd birthday on May 25, the Russian was one of the up and coming cyclist ten years ago but somehow his career hadn’t flourished as expected. “This win is very important for Russia, where cycling is picking up again.” Petrov’s last individual pro win was eight years ago in 2002. He won the Duo Normand two-man time trial with Filippo Pozzato.

Petrov finished 7th overall last 2007’s Giro d’Italia and his seemed to jumpstart his pro career. “I don’t know why I haven’t had more success as a pro. Several times I’ve tried at the Giro but only today I found victory.”

Petrov goes on to explain that the rain was probably one of the factors that helped his victory. “Usually, groups of 50 riders away don’t succeed, but I guess it’s the weather conditions that didn’t allow the bunch to catch us. When I crossed the line I thought of my wife Anna, who is often alone at home in Italy where we don’t have many friends. We both make a lot of sacrifices. Maybe the reason why I haven’t won much is because I’ve always been available as a domestique for my team captains.”